Two-Week Travel Itinerary for Costa Rica: Nature, Wildlife Viewing, and Urban Exploring

Oct 17

Day 1: Arrive in San José, Costa Rica’s capital. Explore the city’s historical landmarks like the National Theater and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. Stroll through the bustling Mercado Central for local crafts and authentic Costa Rican cuisine.
Day 2: Take a day trip to Poás Volcano National Park for a short hike and a view of the impressive crater. In the afternoon, visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens to see lush tropical plants, waterfalls, and wildlife such as hummingbirds and butterflies.

Day 3: Travel to Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast, famous for its turtle nesting season (July to October). Explore the park by boat along its winding canals, surrounded by dense rainforest.
Day 4: Spend the day wildlife viewing—look out for sloths, howler monkeys, caimans, and various bird species. Visit the local Sea Turtle Conservancy to learn about the conservation efforts in the area.
Day 5: Enjoy another day of adventure with a guided canoe tour to explore the quieter corners of the park. Relax on the beach or join a nighttime turtle-watching tour if in season.

Day 6: Travel to La Fortuna, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano. Visit La Fortuna Waterfall and swim in the natural pool at its base. In the evening, soak in the natural hot springs of Tabacón or Baldi, heated by the volcano.
Day 7: Spend the day hiking through Arenal Volcano National Park for up-close views of the volcano and lava fields. For more wildlife viewing, visit Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park to walk among the rainforest canopy.

Day 8: Head to Monteverde, famous for its mystical Cloud Forest Reserve. Take a guided tour through the forest to spot wildlife such as quetzals, hummingbirds, and rare orchids.
Day 9: Zipline through the cloud forest canopy or take a guided night tour for a unique wildlife experience. In the afternoon, visit the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens or Bat Jungle for close encounters with local species.

Day 10: Travel to the Pacific coast and visit Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife. Take a relaxing hike through the park, where you'll spot capuchin monkeys, sloths, and iguanas.
Day 11: Spend a full day enjoying the park’s trails, beaches, and panoramic views. Consider a guided tour to learn about the park's ecosystem and best wildlife-spotting areas.
Day 12: Explore the surrounding area by snorkeling, sea kayaking, or taking a catamaran tour for the chance to see dolphins and other marine life.

Day 13: Return to San José for urban exploration. Visit the Jade Museum to learn about the region’s ancient civilizations or take a coffee tour to sample Costa Rica’s renowned brew.
Day 14: Take a day trip to Cartago to visit the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles and the Irazú Volcano, the highest active volcano in Costa Rica. Return to San José for your final night in the city.

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